Lin to ink offer sheet with Rockets: report

HOUSTON, Texas (AFP) –

NBA free agent Jeremy Lin, the Asian-American star who sparked “Lin-sanity” in February for the Knicks, has reportedly agreed to sign a rich offer sheet with the Houston Rockets.

NBA teams can’t make any free agent transactions until July 11, but the Houston Chronicle was among the US media outlets reporting that Lin was ready to accept the Rockets’ offer, which reports put at about $28.8 million over four years.

The Knicks would have three days to match the offer for Lin.

The New York Daily News was among the media outlets reporting that veteran point guard Jason Kidd, second on the NBA’s all-time list in assists and steals, had opted to leave Dallas and would sign as free agent for the Knicks.

It wasn’t immediately clear if that meant the Knicks were giving up on retaining Lin, or if they hoped teaming with the 39-year-old Kidd could help him develop.

Lin, whose parents are from Taiwan and a grandmother from China, became a smash Broadway hit during last season after having been cut by two NBA clubs — including the Rockets.

Injuries to two starters allowed the former Harvard University standout a chance to come off the Knicks bench and Lin responded by sparking a seven-game Knicks winning streak, his clutch shooting and passing skills earning him adoration from fans.

“Lin-sanity” became a worldwide phenomenon and even after his role was reduced he served as an inspirational tale.

As a restricted free agent, Lin can field offers from rival clubs but the Knicks would be allowed to keep him by matching any offer he receives.

Lin averaged 14.6 points and 6.2 assists a game last season for the Knicks.